Safaris to be docked one kilometer from inhabited islands

President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu announced last night that regulations are to be amended in order to prohibit safaris docking near inhabited islands and prevent unwanted activities.

While President Muizzu was speaking last night during the official opening ceremony of the PNC Office, he said that there have been complaints of safaris docking close to local tourism islands and selling alcohol against the rules.

The President stated that the new amendment to the regulation will see safaris dock a minimum of one kilometer.

While highlighting that local councils will play an important role in the enforcement of the amendment, President Muizzu said that the responsibility of upholding the change will fall to local councils.

President Muizzu also said that if a candidate who harbors thoughts that go against the faith of the nation is elected during the Local Council Election, he fears that the aforementioned responsibility may not be upheld.

"Safaris are licensed to dock near resorts and sell alcohol to tourists who spend the night on the boat. The regulation is being amended so that the safari has to dock at least one kilometer away from inhabited islands," said President Muizzu.

The President went on to say that the dress code for tourists and behavioral standards while they are on inhabited islands will be defined under the amendment.

While noting the warm welcome towards local tourism for their hand in the growth of the Maldivian economy, President Muizzu said that the government is working toward establishing USD ATMs at islands in order to facilitate economic growth.

Nevertheless, the President said that a 100 percent Muslim community cannot give way to political trains of thought that empower activities that go against the faith.